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Anderson delighted with accolade

Watch the ECB video coverage of the Awards event at Lord’s hosted by ECB and Brit Insurance

James Anderson has spoken of his pride after being named England Cricketer of the Year for 2011-12.

The Lancashire seamer, currently third in the International Cricket Council’s Test bowling rankings, was recognised for his consistent form for England over the last 12 months and presented with his award at a ceremony in the Long Room at Lord’s last night.

“It’s really nice to be recognised for my form over the last year,” he told ecb.co.uk.

“I have performed consistently over the last two years which I am delighted with. What makes it more special is that we have been successful as a team and to be singled out as player of the year is a real honour.”

England team-mates Jonathan Trott and Matt Prior both paid tribute to the Lancastrian.

"I have performed consistently over the last two years which I am delighted with," England Cricketer of the Year James Anderson said

“Jimmy has been a stand-out bowler for a while now, he is the spearhead and leader of our attack and is very experienced,” Trott said.

“He is always talking to the other bowlers, trying to help them and make them as good as they can be and make them better themselves.”

Prior added: “On the cricket pitch, his bowling speaks for itself. He is the best swing bowler in world cricket I believe.

“But Jimmy’s skills are unbelievable and I’ve got the best seat in the house, watching him work over a batter is always great fun and hopefully it will continue for a long time to come.”

Charlotte Edwards was crowned England Women’s Cricketer of the Year for 2011-12 after captaining her side to a clean sweep of series wins.

The 32-year-old opening batter also averaged 50 during the year, but was keen to emphasise the team’s importance.

“It’s obviously great to get individual recognition, but this is all about the team and the success we have had and to contribute to that is really, really pleasing,” Edwards said.

“I think for those girls who weren’t part of 2009, you can see an extra anticipation of what’s ahead. They saw us win trophies in 2009 and wanted to be part of our team.

“We have got five or six of them who want to experience it for the first time and the rest of the girls who have already experienced it want another taste.”

Kent batsman Daniel Bell-Drummond won the inaugural England Development Programme Cricketer of the Year award after his impressive performances for England Under-19s.

Bell-Drummond last month surpassed Essex’s Billy Godleman as England U19s most prolific batsman with an unbeaten century in the Quadrangular Series opener against Australia, which he has highlighted as his best showing for the Young Lions.

“The main stand-out moment for me was scoring 100 not out in Australia in their own back yard,” he said.

“That was my main moment. It has been an honour to achieve these awards. I have worked really hard and thankfully it has paid off. Hopefully I can keep improving."